The Temple of Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), Bangkok, Thailand

Here is the map for the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The entry ticket (about 400 baht) include both the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Based on the name, this temple is the house for Buddha statue, which is made from a single block of Jade. Here is the picture of the Emerald Buddha statue.

Renovation was going on when I visited the temple and there seems to be an event will going on. The entrance appeared to be one of the renovated one. In the main gate, there is statue of Hermit (Ruesri) sitting on a rock with his knee drawn up, which is believed to have healing power.

The main place housing the Emerald Buddha is called Ubosot (the ordination hall). The exterior, the wall carving, and the pilar of the Ubosot are very magnificent.

Statues representing the guard of the temple and stupa are in different form, such as golden garuda and naga on the exterior wall, lions in front of the door, five-metre tall Yaksa Tavarnbal (Gate-keeping giants), Nok Tantima (Tantima bird, guarding Viharn Yod).

Nearby the temple. there is a model of Angkor Wat (City of Temples, which is originally in Cambodia) and murals (tell the Ramayana epic) on the corridor wall.

In the area of Temple of the Emerald Buddha, you can find Phra Sri Rattana Chedi (the main Stupa, and also the most sacred in the Royal temple), Phra Mondop (the library, second picture in the left), and Prasat Phra Thep Bidon (The Shrine of the celestial ancestor, The Royal Pantheon, second picture in the right).

There is also eight Phra Atsada Maha Chedis in the east side of the temple which are dedicated to a certain Buddhist concept.

Furthermore, you can enjoy the golden Phra Chedis (Stupa). There are two of them which were built in honor of the King’s father and mother. 20 giants and monkey made of colorful glass lifting the chedi. Another interesting architecture is Phra Sawet Kudakhan Wihan Yot (the Spired Temple, second picture in the right) and the Sala Rai (pavilions made of marble floor).

Interestingly, you will find a lot of elephant’s statues all around the temple. Elephant is believed as a symbol for independence and power.

Tips:

The Temple of Emerald Buddha and The Grand Palace is in one location and need one entry ticket. Better to visit them in the morning to avoid hot weather and be sure to wear a proper dress (avoid sleeveless shirt, avoid mini skirt/dress/short, and use shoes which cover your toes).